Bakersfield businessman Stan Ellis is eying a run for the California Assembly.
It wouldn’t be Ellis’ first time entering the political fray, having already attempted a run at office this year.
The big picture: Ellis filed campaign finance paperwork with the California Secretary of State’s Office.
- The campaign finance portal lists “Ellis for Assembly 2025; Stan” on its website.
- He previously ran for Congress in the March primary for California’s 20th District in an attempt to succeed former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R–Bakersfield).
- Ellis placed eighth in the primary with 2.1% of the vote and did not advance to the general election, which was won by Rep. Vince Fong (R–Bakersfield).
- He owns Ellis Energy Investments, which is a private equity firm in the oil and gas industry that helps companies grow.
Driving the news: While the filing with the state does not specify which Assembly district Ellis plans to run for, the only district that will presumably have an election next year is for District 32, which used to be represented by Fong.
- Fong appeared on the ballot twice since he ran for reelection to Congress, which he took office after winning the special election against Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux earlier this year.
- Bakersfield City Councilman Ken Weir picked up around 40% of the vote for Assembly, meaning the seat will remain vacant until a special election is called.
- With Ellis and Weir presumably exploring campaigns for the seat, water and agriculture attorney Alex Dominguez is also considering a run but has not yet made a decision.
